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- The Nissan Leaf was named the Best Car of 2026 by Cars.com due to its affordability and features.
- Cars.com’s annual awards highlight vehicles that offer value and ease of use as affordability becomes a primary concern for shoppers.
- Other winners include the Nissan Armada for Best SUV, the Hyundai Santa Fe for Best Family Car, and the Ram 1500 for Best Pickup Truck.
Sales of electric cars have declined since the $7,500 federal tax credit was repealed, but one plug-in model was named the best car of 2026 by the website Cars.com.
The site said the Nissan Leaf is the best car of 2026 due to its affordable price, range, flexible charging options and design.
Mike Hanley, senior road test editor at Cars.com, said in a statement that the Nissan Leaf is “perhaps a surprising choice as the EV market realigns following the repeal of the federal tax credit, but at a time when many shoppers believe affordable EVs are out of reach, the redesigned Leaf proves that value, innovation and everyday usability can still coexist.”
Cars.com said the Leaf and other 2026 Best of winners “reflect car shoppers becoming more selective as affordability remains a top priority and there are fewer budget-friendly used options available.”
The USA TODAY Cars team reviewed the winning vehicles in each category and compiled information for consumers about each model.
The winners are:
2026 Best Car
nissan leaf
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $29,990
Cars.com comments: The website says the Leaf “delivers up to 303 miles of EPA-estimated range, strong efficiency, and flexible charging, including access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Intuitive technology, calm driving dynamics, and a wealth of standard features strengthen its value proposition.”
Best SUV of 2026
nissan armada
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $58,840
Cars.com commentsThe website says Armada’s “versatile lineup, strong twin-turbo V6 power, up to 8,500 pounds of towing capacity, and true three-row seating comfort make it an attractive choice for large SUV buyers.”
2026 Best Family Car
Hyundai Santa Fe, Santa Fe Hybrid
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $36,295. $39,295 for hybrid
Cars.com comments: “This ‘tweener’ SUV features three rows of seating, easy access, flexible cargo space, and an available hybrid drivetrain, all without the bulk and driving compromises of the larger 3-trains.”
Best Pickup Trucks of 2026
ram 1500
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $41,575
Cars.com comments: “From work trims to luxury models to the return of the Hemi V8, the Ram 1500 delivers confident capability with best-in-class comfort.”
Best EV of 2026
Let’s make it EV9
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $54,900
Cars.com comments: “With up to 305 miles of range, access to Tesla Superchargers, and great versatility for families, it addresses many of the common barriers to EV ownership.”
Best luxury cars of 2026
Cadillac Escalade IQ
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $129,900
Cars.com comments: “This Cadillac redefines electric luxury with its bold design, technology-rich cabin, estimated range of 465 miles, and refined and incredibly agile driving dynamics.”
